The 1922 Milburn Electric is a very late example of the first generation of electric cars. Built by the Milburn Wagon Company in Toledo, Ohio, this electric car boasts a distinctive design reminiscent of a horse-drawn carriage. From 1915 - 1923, the Milburn Wagon Company crafted approximately 4,000 of these quiet, clean, and stylish electric cars that offered a stark contrast to the loud, smelly, and challenging-to-operate gasoline cars of the time. President Woodrow Wilson himself owned a 1918 Milburn Electric, which was driven around the White House grounds.
Equipped with 14 new deep cycle batteries that totaled over 900 pounds, the Milburn Electric features a limited range of 60 miles and a top speed of 30 mph. The Milburn Electric's batteries came with rollers, which allowed for easy replacement. Despite being well-built, the cost of this electric marvel was over ten times that of a 1922 Ford Model T. However, by 1923, the demand for electric vehicles diminished, which led to the end of Milburn when its factory was acquired by Buick.
A labor of love is evident in its interior, where intricate hand-made needlepoint, a product of nearly five years of dedication, adorns the plush mohair surroundings. The luxurious features extend to silk curtains and elegant 8-inch crystal vases on each side, delicately cradling seven sweetheart roses.
Our Milburn recently participated in the Pebble Beach Road Tour, showcasing its enduring presence among Early American Electric Cars.
Become an archive member for exclusive access to photos, videos and historical documents about the museum's car collection.
